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SENIOR DIVISION

First Quarter, 1929

Lessons from

The BOOK of ISAIAH

Thirteenth Sabbath Offering, March 30, 1929

Catholic Europe

Entered as second-class matter October 13, 1904., at the Post Of-

fice in Mountain View, Cal., under the Act of Congress of March

3, 1879. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage pro-

vided for in section 1103, Act of October 3, 1917, and authorized

September 18, 1918.

PACIFIC PRESS PUB. ASSN. (A

Corporation of S. D. A.)

No. 136



MOUNTAIN VIEW, CAL., JANUARY, 1929



20c A YEAR

62-KH,K€€,KKOB.2.22),2),Bee.am3e4t2

Isaiah,

The Gospel Prophet

Volume III

By M. L. Andreasen

HIS is the third and last of a series of practical Sabbath

school lesson helps on the book of Isaiah. This pamphlet

is intended f or .use in connection with the lessons for the first

quarter of 1929.

Many thousands of copies of Volumes I and II have been

sold, and those who have enjoyed the use of these helpful com-

ments on the Sabbath school lessons will be anxious to secure

Volume III. The information this little book contains is of

interest to every member of the Senior and Youth's divisions,

and of vital importance to every teacher.

If you have not already secured your copy, place your order

immediately so you will not miss the help it will give you.

Price, 25 cents; Canada, 30 cents. Order from your Book and

Bible House.

The Next Thirteenth Sabbath Offering

L. L.

CAVINESS

[Sabbath School Secretary of the European Division]

fields which are looking for an overflow offering on Sabbath, March

30,

have more than one third of the entire population of Europe. The

total appropriations voted for last year for all these countries amounted to

a little over $180,000, or about one dollar per thousand population. We feel

certain that our faithful Sabbath school members will give generously on the

next thirteenth Sabbath that the third angel's message may go rapidly to

the Roman Catholic lands of Europe.

Table (Round figures are given.)

Latin Union



Population

Members

Italy



42,000,000

420

France

40,500,000

1,300

Belgium

8,000,000

430

Iberian

Union

Spain

23,000,000

300

Portugal

6,000,000

250

Polish Union

30,000,000

2,300

Czecho-Slovakian Union

14,000,000

2,300

Hungarian

Union

8,000,000

1,700

Austrian Conference

6,700,000

1,000

Totals

178,200,000

10,000

[ 2 ]



'I PRINTED

1N U'SA-

LESSON 1

THE GOD OF COMFORT

January 5, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 54.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 54:10.

INTRODUCTION

This first part of the lesson deals with the relation of God to His

church under the symbol of husband and wife. This idea forms the

basis of many references in both the Old and the New Testament.

Jer. 3:14; 31:32; 2 Cor. 11:2; Eph. 5:23-32. The Song of Solomon

is founded on this conception. To be untrue to God is called adultery.

Eze. 23:37. Hence we need not apply these lessons to Israel only.

They have an application now.

The second part of the lesson deals with God's protecting care over

His people. He created the smith who is forging the weapon with

intent to torture God's people. In other words, God knows. He is

responsible. Trust Him, and all will be well. "No weapon that is

formed against thee shall prosper." That is our heritage.



•

THE LESSON

Why is the barren told to break forth into singing? Isa. 54:1.

NomE.—Israel is told to sing because the desolate has more children

than the married wife. This, of course, is to be spiritually understood.

Paul, quoting this verse in Galatians 4:27, refers to the story of Hagar

and Sarah. Sarah was desolate. She had no children, and there was no

hope of any. Hagar had a son, Ishmael. Abraham thought that Ish-

mael might be the promised child, but God said, "My covenant will I

establish with Isaac, which Sarah shall bear." "She shall be a mother

of nations; kings of people shall be of her." Gen. 17:21, 16. That both

Gentiles and Jews who surrender to Christ are included as the spiritual

children of Abraham and Sarah is made clear by a comparison with

Galatians 3:7, 16, 14.

This has reference to a great ingathering of souls for Christ, and

how God will greatly bless and prosper the work of the gospel in the

last day when He finishes His work in the earth.

What should be done to make room for this gospel ingathering?

Verse 2.

NOTE.—The prophet is here looking forward to the time when the

gospel shall be preached to the ends of the earth. (See "Prophets and

Kings," page 374, par. 1.)

"Enlarge the place of thy tent." The work in the foreign fields

must be ever extended. "Lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy

stakes." At the same time, the work at home must be strengthened.

What does God say shall take place on the right hand and on

the left? What shall the seed inherit? What change shall come to the

desolate cities? Verse 3.

NOTE.—"Thou shalt break forth," or "Thou shalt increase." It is

because of the great increase that shall come to God's people that

plans for enlargements are to be made.

"On the right hand and on the left"—on all sides. (See Gen. 28:14.)

"Inherit the Gentiles." Isaiah here looks away from the conception

which the Jews of his day had, that only Jews could be saved. The

redeemed will be saved from all nations, and the Gentiles will be among

them.

"Desolate cities." Cities without godly inhabitants will hear the

message, and many living in them will accept it. God thinks of and

plans for the cities. Jonah 1:2; 3:2; 4:10, 11.

What encouraging message does God send? What shall be for-

gotten? Verse 4.

NOTE.—"Fear not." The preceding verses have mentioned the en-

largement that shall come to God's people. They shall inherit the

Gentiles and spread forth right and left. Does this seem too much,

Fear not. They shall not be ashamed. The Lord is with His people.

Their plans may seem ambitious and incapable of fulfillment, but the

living God never fails.

"The shame of thy youth." "The reproach of thy widowhood."

Israel again and again had left the Lord, her lawful husband, and

gone after other lovers. Hosea 2:13. Hence the Lord considered the

vow broken, and did not regard Israel. Hosea 2:2. But these sad ex-

periences will be forgotten when God again returns to Israel.

How is the Lord spoken of in relation to the church? By what

other three names is He called? Verse 5.

NOTE.—"Thy Maker is thine husband." This explains the state-

ments in verses 1 and 4 concerning the "married wife" and "widow-

hood." That is, God is the husband of the church. This, of course, has

specific reference to Christ. Eph. 5:32.

How had the Lord called Israel? Verse 6.

NOTE.—The American Revised Version has "wife" instead of

"woman." The thought seems to be that although the church has left

her Lord, God calls her back again, once more to resume her place

as wife.

What had God done for a small moment? What does He say

He will do? Verse 7.

NOTE. —Because of their sins, God had forsaken His people, for "a

small moment." When this was written, the ten tribes had been carried

into captivity a few years previously, 721 B. C. (See 2 Kings 17:6,

18.) But though in captivity, Israel was not forsaken, for God's mercy

was still extended to them.

What had God done "in a little wrath"? What will He now do?

Verse 8.

To what is this likened? What had God sworn? What does He

now swear? Verse 9.

I,4

NOTE.—God here likens the carrying of the ten tribes into cap-

tivity to the time of Noah. Sin brought the Flood, and so sin had

brought this calamity. God had promised not to send another flood on

the earth, and here He promises not again to be wroth with His people,

nor rebuke them. Some have thought that God has not kept this prom-

ise. Did He not more than a hundred years later permit Judah to be

carried into captivity in the time of Daniel? And did He not finally

in A. D. 70 reject the whole Jewish nation?

Note this: The captivity of the ten tribes in 721 B. C. was final.

There was no return. The captivity in the time of Daniel was not final.

There was a return. God rejected the Jewish nation and permitted

Jerusalem to be destroyed in A. D. 70; but before that time, He had

already established His New Testament church composed of such as

should be saved in Israel, together with the Gentiles, and this consti-

tuted the true church, the continuation of the church of Isaiah's day.

Hence God has kept His promise. The rejection of the nation did not

mean the rejection of individuals.

10.

What beautiful promise is given to God's people? Verse 10.

11.

What promises does God give the afflicted? Verses 11, 12.

12.

By whom shall the children be taught? What great blessing is

promised them? Verse 13.

NOTE.—In John 6:45 Christ quotes this text. (See also 1 Thess.

4:9.)

"Great shall be the peace." In a world of tumult, God's people will

have peace. Serene, confident, unperturbed, God's own will pass

through the perils of the last days. (See John 14:27; Ps. 119:165.)

13.

In what shall God's people be established? From what shall

they be far removed? Verse 14.

14.

What will be the fate of the enemies of God's people? Verse 15.

NOTE.—"Not by Me." Should thy enemies unite and attack thee, it

is none of My doings, hence it shall not prosper.

15.

Who has created the smith and the waster? Verse 16.

NOTE.—God's people need not fear any danger. The furnace may

be heated seven times hotter than usual, but God has created both the

fireman and the fuel he uses. These are in God's hands.

16.

What shall not prosper against God's people? What shall be

condemned? What is said to be their heritage? Of whom is their right-

eousness? Verse 17.

"If those to whom God's money has been intrusted will be

faithful in bringing the means lent them to the Lord's treasury,

His work will make rapid advancement. Many souls will be won

to the cause of truth, and the day of Christ's coming will be

hastened."-7-"Testimonies," Vol. 9, p. 58.

]

LESSON 2

GOD'S CALL TO RETURN; THE WORD

THAT TRANSFORMS

January 12, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 55.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 55:6, 7.

INTRODUCTION

Salvation is freely offered to all, but it becomes available only to

those who enter into covenant relation with God.

While God thus extends mercy to all, the door will not always be

open. God may be found now, later it may be too late. Therefore,

seek Him now.

THE LESSON

Who is invited to drink of the water of life? What are they to

buy? How much does it cost? Isa. 55:1.

NOTE.—"Every one that thirsteth." The condition for receiving the

blessings of God is not riches, for you may come without money. It is

not condition, or rank, or learning. It is simply your need. Are you

thirsty? Then come.

Thirst is perhaps the greatest and most compelling of physical de-

sires. A man who is hungry will, after a while, quietly lie down and

die; the thirsty man will spend himself in mad strivings. His whole

nature is burning up. He must have water. This strong desire is com-

pared to spiritual thirst. David uses the same figure. Ps. 42:1, 2;

63:1. (See also John 4:13, 14.)

The water signifies:

Christ.—"Patriarchs and Prophets," p. 413.

The Word.—"Steps to Christ," p. 93.

Emblem of divine grace.—"Patriarchs and Prophets," p. 412.

Spiritual life.—"The Desire of Ages," p. 190.

Wine and milk are used as figures.

What important question is asked concerning the spending of

money? What similar question is asked concerning labor? What ad-

vice is given? Verse 2.

NoTE.—Spending money uselessly is sin. In this day when there

are people suffering for the necessities of life, when there is an even

greater spiritual need, we must be careful in the expenditure of every

penny. "Money is a trust from God. It is not ours to expend for the

gratification of pride or ambition. In the hands of God's children it

is food for the hungry, and clothing for the naked. It is a defense to

the oppressed, a means of health to the sick, a means of preaching the

gospel to the poor. You could bring happiness to many hearts by using

wisely the means that is now spent for show. Consider the life of

Christ. Study His character, and be partakers with Him in His self-

denial."—"The Ministry of Healing," p. 287.

[

"Eat ye that which is good." "God demands that the appetites be

cleansed, and that self-denial be practiced in regard to those things

which are not good. This is a work that will have to be done before

His people can stand before Him a perfected people."—"Testimonies,"

Vol. 9, pp. 153, 154.

Applying this text to spiritual matters, there is no better spiritual

food than the word of God. On that we should feed morning, noon, and

night. Any substitution will prove disastrous. It is the bread,—the

very staff,—of life.

What invitation does the Lord give? What will He make with

us? Verse 3.

NOTE.—"An everlasting covenant." This covenant of grace was

first made in Eden. Gen. 3:15. It was renewed to Abraham. Gen.

22:18; 26:4, 5; 17:7. It was ratified by Christ on the cross. (See

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pp. 370, 371.) And "in the last days of

this earth's history, God's covenant with His commandment-keeping

people is to be renewed."—"Prophets and Kings," p. 299.

"The sure mercies of David." These mercies are the precious prom-

ises given to David, including ,the promise of the Saviour through

David's line. Ps. 89:1-5; 2 Sam. 23:5.

Who is the leader and commander mentioned in verse 4?

NoTE.—What is said here seems to have a very definite reference to

Christ, who is called David in Jeremiah 30:9 and Ezekiel 34:23, 24.

Christ is also the Son of David. Hence commentators rightly apply

these verses to Christ. Matt. 21:9; Luke 1:32.

Christ is also a witness. John 18:37.

Whom shall He call? What shall nations do? Verse 5.

NOTE.—The thought in this verse is that Christ shall call nations

with whom He had not hitherto made any covenant, that is, the Gen-

tiles. These would be drawn to Him because God would glorify His

Son. In the death and resurrection of Christ, God did glorify the Son.

John 17:1; Acts 3:13-15.

What are men called upon to do? Verse 6.

NOTE.—The day will come when some shall seek, but shall not find.

Amos 8:11, 12.

What must the wicked and the unrighteous forsake? How will

God treat the sinner if he returns? Verse 7.

What does God say of His thoughts and ways? Verses 8, 9. (See

Jer. 29:11.)

What is said of the rain and snow which come down from

heaven? What is said of His word? How will it not return? What

will it accomplish? 7n what will it prosper? Verses 10, 11.

NOTE.—"It shall prosper." "The work of the sower is a work of

faith. The mystery of the germination and growth of the seed he can

not understand; but he has confidence in the agencies by which God

causes vegetation to flourish. He casts away the seed, expecting to

[

gather it manyf old in an abundant harvest. So parents and teachers

are to labor, expecting a harvest from the seed they sow."—"Educa-

tion," p. 105.

10.

In what spirit are we to go forth in seed sowing? How is na-

ture said to rejoice? Verse 12.

NOTE.—The word "for" connects this verse with the preceding one.

God will do His part. He will send rain and snow, but man must also

do his part. We must do the planting; God will give the increase.

11.

What transformation shall take place? What shall this be to

the Lord? Verse 13.

NoTE.—Briers and thorns represent evil. Micah 7:4. By contrast,

the fir and myrtle would represent righteousness.

"A name." "An everlasting sign." To turn briers and thorns, spir-

itually speaking, into beautiful and useful fir and myrtle, is a me-

morial to God's praise.

LESSON 3

BLESSINGS TO JEW AND GENTILE;

BLIND WATCHMEN

January 19, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 56.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 56 : 2.

INTRODUCTION

This chapter is divided into two distinct parts. Verses 1-8 deal

with the promises of God to all who do His will. Lest some should

think that they themselves are left out, the strangers and the eunuchs

are especially mentioned. The Sabbath is vital to His covenant. The

keeping of the Sabbath in verses 2, 4, and 6, is shown to be one of the

conditions of receiving God's blessings. These promises and conditions

apply to all other peoples as well as to the Jews.

Verses 9-12 state the condition of the blind watchmen. While we

need to be careful in any local application of these statements, we

must not forget that this is God's view of the situation. We peed to

pray God to make us faithful watchmen on the walls of Zion, and that

we be not charged with surfeiting or drunkenness. We should be

wholly clear ourselves of that which we condemn in others.

THE LESSON

What are we told to keep and to do? What is near, and what is

about to be revealed? Isa. 56:1.

NOTE.—"Keep ye judgment, and do justice," might well be trans-

lated, "Keep ye law, and do righteousness."—Pulpit Commentary.

This has a special application to this time. It has always been the

duty of God's children to keep His law.

What is said of the man that keeps the Sabbath and refrains

from evil? Verse 2.

NOTE.—This blessing is not for the Jews only, but for "man" and

the "son of man." Neither is the blessing for the one who only once

does it, but to him who "layeth hold on it;" "holds to it," as Moffatt

translates the text.

"Keepeth the Sabbath."' How much that includes! It requires

nothing less than holiness. "No other institution which was committed

to the Jews tended so fully to distinguish them from surrounding na-

tions as did the Sabbath. . . . To keep the Sabbath holy, men must

themselves be holy. Through faith they must become partakers of the

righteousness of Christ."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 283.

What should the son of a stranger or the eunuch not say? Verse 3.

Verse 3.

NOTE.—"Many from among the sons of the strangers were to learn

to love Him as their Creator and their RedeeNer ; they were to begin

the observance of His holy Sabbath day as a memorial of His creative

power; and when He should make 'bare His holy arm in the eyes of all

the nations,' to deliver His people from captivity, 'all the ends of the

earth' should see of the salvation of God. Many of these converts from

heathenism would wish to unite themselves fully with the Israelites,

and accompany them on the return journey to Judea. None of these

werd to say, 'The Lord bath utterly separated me from His people;'

for the word of God through His prophet to those who should yield

themselves to Him and observe His law, was that they should thence-

forth be numbered among spiritual Israel—His church on earth."—

"Prophets and Kings," p. 372.

"Eunuch." As the eunuch could not become the head of a family in

Israel, he might fear that he could have no share in the hopes of Israel.

God here allays the fear that any physical disability will keep a man

out of heaven.

What three things are mentioned of the eunuchs whom the Lord

addresses? Verse 4.

NoTE.—"Keep My Sabbaths." Of all the Ten Commandments, the

fourth is the one chosen as the test and condition of one of the most

beautiful promises either in the Old or the New Testament, as men-

tioned in the next verse.

"Choose the things that please Me." Christ pleased not Himself.

We are not to please ourselves. In eating or drinking, in dress or

adornment, in association or friendship, in the thousand decisions that

come to us daily, the question should always be: What will please Him?

"Take hold of My covenant." The thought here is not merely to

"take hold of," but to hold fast, not to give up.

What two things will God give to them? How is the name fur-

ther designated? Verse 5.

NOTE.—"A place." This place will be "in Mine house and within

My walls." While this special promise is given to the eunuchs, we may

believe God is no respecter of persons. The same promise applies to

all. The eunuchs to whom these promises were especially given, would

have no sons or daughters. God, therefore, promises them something

]

better. God will more than restore and make up for anything of which

we may in this life be deprived. Eph. 3:20.

"An everlasting name." Some names will be blotted out. Some will

remain. Rev. 3:5.

What do the strangers do that join themselves to the Lord?

Verse 6.

NoTE.—"Serve Him." To join ourselves to the Lord means more

than to subscribe to a creed. It means service.

To love the name of the Lord is to love all that name stands for.

"His servants" means worshipers. It includes the act of worshiping

as also the mode and form.

"Keepeth the Sabbath." This is included in true worship. Who-

ever "join themselves to the Lord" will be Sabbath keepers. It should

be noted that God here again selects the fourth commandment out of

all the ten as the test commandment.

"Taketh hold of My covenant." He that "holdeth fast" the cove-

pant will ever experience the blessing of forgiveness of sin and the

renewing grace of God, and will be in harmony with God's law.

Where will God bring the strangers? Where shall-they be made

joyful? What will God accept from them? What shall God's house be

called? Verse 7.

NOTE.-"My

holy mountain," Jerusalem, or the church of Christ.

Also symbolic of the new earth. Isa. 11:9; 65:25.

"House of prayer," the temple. ("The Desire of Ages," p. 27.)

After "My house" had become "your house" (Matt. 21:13; 23:38) ;

that is, after God had rejected the temple and its services, any place

where God's people assemble is a place of prayer. Acts 12:5, 12; 16:13.

"An house of prayer." Prayer is more than asking for things.

Prayer is communion. God's house is a "house of prayer for all people."

That is, all are invited to come and pray, not for themselves alone, but

for their neighbors here at home as well as in far-off fields. Thus in a

double sense God's house is a "house of prayer for all people."

How does the Lord speak of Himself? What does He say of the

ingathering of the Gentiles? Verse 8.

What is said to the beasts of the field and of the forest? Verse 9.

NoTE.—Verse 9 begins a new section. The wild beasts are the

enemies of God's people, who are coming to devour the flock because

the shepherds are asleep. (See Eze. 34:7-10.)

10.

How are the watchmen described? Verse 10.

11.

What further is said of them? Of what are they incapable?

Which way do they look? For what reason? Verse 11.

12.

What do they say? With what will they be filled? 'What is said

of to-morrow? Verse 12.

NoTE.—It would be unjust as well as untrue to make a general ap-

plication of these verses. There are many honest souls, priests as well

as people, who are living up to all the light they have. These God will

lead into still greater light. But there are also those to whom these

verses refer in all their force.

[10

]

LESSON 4

THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE WICKED IN

THE DAY OF TROUBLE

January 26, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 57.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 57: 15.

INTRODUCTION

Verses 1 and 2 we have always and rightly applied to the time just

before the beginning of the plagues. God will cause some to sleep that

He may deliver them from the evil to come.

Verses 3-13 speak of the condition of the wicked at the same time.

They make "sport" of God's true children, they go into depths of sin

and degradation. They weary of their own wickedness, yet they do

not repent.

In that time of peril, God will not forsake His own. He will dwell

with the contrite and humble, and revive them. He will give them

peace. The wicked, on the other hand, will continue to throw up "mire

and dirt." For them there is no peace.

THE LESSON

After describing the unfaithful watchmen, what is said of the

righteous? What happens to merciful men? What is not considered?

Isa. 57:1.

NOTE.—"Taken away from the evil to come." Josiah was promised

that he would be taken away before the evil should come. 2 Kings

22:20. So with these. At the time when the Sabbath is the test, when

the watchmen are sleeping, when the day of trouble is approaching,

some will be "taken away from the evil to come."

Into what shall they enter? How shall they rest? How have they

walked? Verse 2.



•

NOTE.—"Into peace." "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord

from henceforth." Rev. 14:13. They rest while the world goes on. The

last struggle is in progress. The two-horned beast of Revelation 13 is

publishing his decree that whoever will not worship the image of the

beast shall be killed. Rev. 13:15. God's people are entering into the

time of Jacob's trouble. It is a terrific final struggle. During this

time, some of God's people have entered "into peace." "Rest in their

beds."

"Each one walking," rather "each one that walked," referring to

those who have entered into peace.

What is said of the wickedness of evil men at this time? Verses

3-10.

NOTE.—The following suggestions are offered concerning the mean-

ing of these verses:

Verses 3-10 are in sharp contrast with that which precedes them.

God has been speaking of the righteous. Now He turns to the scoffers

[ 111

that "sport" themselves. It is evidently the few righteous that still live

among them who are the object of this mocking. Even as Ishmael

mocked Isaac (Gen. 21:9), and as there shall come mockers in the last

days (2 Peter 3:3), so these mock. To make "a wide mouth," to "draw

out the tongue," are childish gestures, an evidence of a complete lack

of decency and self-respect.

This description definitely points out who are meant in the follow-

ing verses. They are the "children of transgression," that debase them-

selves "even unto hell." Verses 4, 9.

What does God say further of these wicked ones? What has God

done? Verse 11.

NOTE.—"Thou hast lied." God here asks of whom these people are

afraid that they should think it necessary to lie. It can not be that

they are afraid of God, for they do not believe in Him. The thought

of lying to God is there also. Some of these people of rebellion profess

to be God's children—their very profession is a lie.

What will God declare? Of what profit shall it be? Verse 12.

How does God contrast putting trust in companions with putting

trust in Him? Verse 13.

NOTE.—Trust is the characteristic Old Testament word for the New

Testament words "faith," "belief." It occurs one hundred fifty-two

times in the Old Testament, and is the rendering of Hebrew words sig-

nifying to take refuge, as in Ruth 2:12; to lean on, Psalm 56:3; to

stay upon, Job 35:14.

What shall be said? Verse 14.

NOTE.—"It shall be said," American Revised Version, margin.

"Cast ye up." That is, make a highway by heaping up material for

it, and take all obstructions out of the way. (See Isa. 62:10.)

Who is the speaker of these words? Where is His habitation?

What name is given Him? Where does He dwell? With whom also

will He make His abode? For what purpose? Verse 15.

NovE.—"High and lofty One." The same as "high and lifted up"

in Isaiah 6:1. "Inhabiteth eternity." Lives forever, enthroned forever.

"Holy." Even as God is love, so also He is holy. That, in fact, is

His name. Holiness includes all the characteristics of God.

"I saw then what faint views some have of the holiness of God, and

how much they take His holy and reverend name in vain, without real-

izing that it is God, the great and terrible God, of whom they are

speaking. .

"I also saw that many do not realize what they must be in order to

live in the sight of the Lord without a high priest in the sanctuary,

through the time of trouble. Those who receive the seal of the living

God, and are protected in the time of trouble, must reflect the image

of Jesus fully."—"Early Writings," pp. 70, 71.

What will God not do? What reason is given for this? Verse 16.

Nova.—God will not keep His anger, forever. Ps. 103:9. If God

did so, no one could stand before Him. God's actions are based on His

[ 12

mercy. If God should hold all to strict accountability, none could

stand. Ps. 130:3.

10.

Why was God wroth? What did He do? What did the people

do? Verse 17.

NOTE.—Covetousness is idolatry. Col. 3:5. "The greatest sin which

now exists in the church is covetousness."—"Testimonies," Vol. 1,

p. 194.

"The law of tithing was founded upon an enduring principle, and

was designed to be a blessing to man. The system of benevolence was

arranged to prevent that great evil, covetousness. Christ saw that in

the prosecution of business the love of riches would be the greatest

cause of rooting true godliness out of the heart. He saw that the love

of money would freeze deep and hard into men's souls, stopping the

flow of generous impulses, and closing their senses to the wants of the

suffering and the afflicted. . . . Covetousness is one of the most com-

mon and popular sins of the last days, and has a paralyzing influence

upon the soul."—"Testimonies," Vol. 3, p. 547.

"Smote him." Covetousness is here selected as the typical sin. For

this God was "wroth, and smote him." For example, see Acts 5:1-11.

"I hid me." It is sin that separates from God. Isa. 59:2.

"He went on." Israel did not heed. "He went on" in his own way.

How true that is of many professed Christians to-day!

11.

What has God seen? What will He do? What more will God

do? Verse 18.

NOTE.—"I have seen." God is fully aware of conditions. "Will heal

him." He will heal the contrite ones. What a wonderful God is ours!

He knows our way, that we have gone astray. Yet He does not leave

us to ourselves.

"I will lead him." Even though we have gone our own way, God

does not forsake us. He will still lead us. Though many have gone

their own way, God does not forsake them, but leads them until they

are brought back to Him!

"Restore comforts." There is no real comfort in sin; but there is

wonderful comfort in the knowledge of sin forgiven.

12.

What does God create? What message is to be brought to him

that is afar off and to him that is near? Verse 19.

NoTE.—"The fruit of the lips" means praise and thanksgiving.

Heb. 13:15.

"Peace, peace." At the birth of Christ the angels sang, "Peace,

good will toward men." Luke 2;14. At the close of His ministry,

Christ said, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you." John

14:27; 16:33.

13.

To what are the wicked likened? Verse 20.

14.

For whom is there no peace? Verse 21.

Nom—The wicked may engage in amusements and entertainments

to divert the mind, but true, enduring peace is found only in Christ,

and is not theirs.

[13

LESSON 5

TRUE FASTING; THE SABBATH RESTORED

February 2, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 58.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 58: 13, 14.

INTRODUCTION

"What saith the Lord in the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah? The

whole chapter is of the highest importance."—"Testimonies," Vol. 8,

p. 159.

This chapter is directed to God's people. "It is not the wicked

world, but those whom the Lord designates as 'My people,' that are to

be reproved for their transgressions."—"The Great Controversy," p.

452. "The prophet is addressing Sabbath keepers, not sinners, not un-

believers."—"Testimonies," Vol. 2, p. 36.

"The fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah is a prescription for maladies

of the body and of the soul. If we desire health and the true joy of

life, we must put into practice the rules given in this scripture."—

"The Ministry of Healing," p. 256.

THE LESSON

How is the prophet told to make this announcement? How

should he lift up his voice? Who are to have their sins pointed out?

Isa. 58:1.

NOTE.—"Spare not." Do not smooth matters over. Tell the truth.

"Transgression." Sin is sin; righteousness is righteousness. The

trumpet note of warning must be sounded. We are living in a fearfully

wicked age. The worship of God will become corrupted unless there are

wide-awake men at every post of duty. It is no time now for any to be

absorbed in selfish ease. Not one of the words which God has spoken

must be allowed to fall to the ground."—"Testimonies," Vol. 4, p. 517.

How regularly do His people seek Him? In what do they de-

light? What have they not forsaken? For what do they ask? In what,

further, do they take delight? Verse 2.

NOTE.—"Daily." It is possible, then, to seek the Lord daily, to have

family worship and private devotions, and yet not be right with God.

What an alarming and heart-searching thought!

These people delight to know God's ways. They are eager to know

the divine will, as eager as if they were in reality a people that prac-

ticed righteousness. They are not conscious hypocrites—quite the re-

verse. But they seem to lack a proper appreciation of what constitutes

true religion.

"The ordinance of their God," the law.

What complaint do they bring against God? Of what do they

say He takes no notice? 'What answer does God give? Verse 3.

NoTE.—Having fasted, these people expect God to take heed and

give them due credit, or reward. Now they complain that God appar-

]

ently has not seen them. They are willing to conform to all the require.

ments of religion, but they want recognition for it, they want pay.

Real fasting presupposes such a seeking of God that worldly things

will be forgotten. True fasting permits of no other "business" than

that of seeking God. Merely to be hungry is not to fast.

For what purpose do they fast? How does God say they do not

fast? Verse 4.

NorE.—Fasting should humble the spirit and produce kindness and

love in the heart for others. The fasting here spoken of produced irri-

tation and ill feeling, even to the point of angry debate and "smiting."

"Ye fast not this day so as to make your voice to be heard on high,"

American Revised Version. Their fast was not such that God could

hear them.

What questions does God ask? Verse 5.

NorE.—God disapproves of the kind of fasting here mentioned.

"Jesus said, 'When thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;

that thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in

secret.' Whatever is done to the' glory of God is to be done with cheer-

fulness, not with sadness and gloom. There is nothing gloomy in the

religion of Jesus."—"Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing," p. 131.

(See also Matt. 6:16-18.)

What four things are mentioned as being included in true fast-

ing? Verse 6.

NorE.—"Loose the bands of wickedness;" to free from unjust and

oppressive obligations.

"Undo the heavy burdens:" literally, to untie the bands of the yoke.

"Let the oppressed go free;" literally the "broken." Probably

such as through debt had forfeited their liberty. (See Neh. 5:8.)

"Break every yoke." This includes all that hinders in any way.

Every yoke that holds you must be broken. Every sin must be put aside.

What are we to do for the hungry? For the poor? For the

naked? From whom must we not hide? Verse 7.

Norm—Read "Testimonies," Vol. 2, pp. 32-35.

"In all our work, the principle of unselfishness revealed in Christ's

life is to be carried out. Upon the walls of our homes, the pictures, the

furnishings, we are to read, 'Bring the poor that are cast out to thy

house.' On our wardrobes we are to see written, as with the finger of

God, 'Clothe the naked' In the dining room, on the table laden with

abundant food, we should see traced, 'Is it not to deal thy bread to the

hungry?' "—"The Ministry of Healing," p. 206.

What will come to those who do God's will? What is said of their

health? What will go before them? What will be their rereward?

Verse 8.



NorE.—"Righteousness shall go before." A life dedicated to doing

good can not be hid under a bushel. The fame of it will spread far and

wide and "go before." So also in regard to the life to come. Any good

done will go before and come up before God as a sweet savor. (See

Acts 10:4.)

[ 15 ]

"Glory of the Lord." Rereward means rear guard. As the pillar of

cloud and of fire was a protection to Israel, so God's people now are

promised God's glory as their protection. (See Ex. 14:19-25.)

What shall be the experience of those who fast according to

God's conditions? What three things, however, must be taken away?

Verse 9.

NOTE.—"Take away . . . the yoke," referred to in verse 6.

"Putting forth of the finger," a gesture of contempt.

"Speaking vanity," speaking evil.

10.

What other two conditions are mentioned? What promises are

given? Verse 10.

11.

'What beautiful promise of guidance is given? How will the

Lord satisfy His own? What will they be like? Verse 11.

NomE.—If we satisfy the afflicted soul, God will satisfy our soul.

"A watered garden." "A spring of water." When the drought

comes, the test comes. In the dark days of life true Christianity re-

veals itself. It is for that specific time that these promises hold.

12.

What will happen to the old waste places? What will be raised

up? What will they who do this be called? Verse 12.

NOTE.—"This prophecy also applies in our time. The breach was

made in the law of God when the Sabbath was changed by the Romish

power. But the time has come for that divine institution to be restored.

The breach is to be repaired, and the foundation of many generations

to be raised up."—"The Great Controversy," p. 453.

"The prophet here describes a people who, in a time of general

departure from truth and righteousness, are seeking to restore the

principles that are the foundation of the kingdom of God. They are

repairers of a breach that has been made in God's law,—the wall that

He has placed around His chosen ones for their protection, and obedi-

ence to whose precepts of justice, truth, and purity, is to be their per-

petual safeguard."—"Prophets and Kings," pp. 677, 678.

13.

From what are we to turn away our foot? What may we not do

on the holy day? What three descriptive words are used of the Sab-

bath? Whom are we to honor? In what three ways may that be done?

Verse 13.

NOTE.—"When the Sabbath commences we should place a guard

upon ourselves, upon our acts and our words, lest we rob God by appro-

priating to our own use that time which is strictly the Lord's. We

should not do ourselves, nor suffer our children to do, any manner of

our own work for a livelihood, or anything which could have been done

on the six working days. Friday is the day of preparation. Time can

then be devoted to making the necessary preparation for the Sabbath,

and to thinking and conversing about it. Nothing which will in the

sight of Heaven be regarded as a violation of the holy Sabbath should

be left unsaid or undone, to be said or done upon the Sabbath.

"God requires not only that we refrain from physical labor upon

the Sabbath, but that the mind be disciplined to dwell upon sacred

[ 16]

themes. The fourth commandment is virtually transgressed by con-

versing upon worldly things, or by engaging in light and trifling con-

versation. Talking upon anything or everything which may come into

the mind, is speaking our own words. Every deviation from right

brings us into bondage and condemnation."—"Testimonies," Vol. 2,

pp. 702, 703.

Religion, Sabbath keeping, all spiritual exercises, should be consid

ered a privilege rather than a yoke. Only thus considered can they ever

be a delight.

14. What should come as a result of true Sabbath keeping? What

promises are given? Who has said this? Verse 14.

Nova.—"High places of the earth," that is, "I will carry thee tri-

umphantly over all obstacles."—Cambridge Bible.

"Feed thee," cause thee to enjoy.

LESSON 6

A REDEEMER PROMISED TO A PENITENT

PEOPLE

February 9, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 59.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 59: 1, 2.

INTRODUCTION

This chapter is a continuation of the preceding one. It reveals the

reason for the Lord's not hearing or answering the prayers of the

people. The people seem aware of their real condition, for in Isaiah

59:12 they admit that their iniquities are known to them, and that

their sins testify against them.

The first fifteen verses of this chapter present a picture of terrible

backsliding. A profession of Christianity has been used as a cloak for

evil. Churchgoers have had a form of godliness without the power

thereof. They admit that they have been neither truthful nor just,

that they have made crooked paths, and, as the result, have stumbled

like blind men. The situation is not hopeless, however, for the Lord

Himself will gird up His loins like a man of war and deliver His

people.

The lesson is clear. Sin will cause God to hide His face from us;

but in turning from our iniquities, God will cause the Redeemer to

come to Zion.

THE LESSON

1. What is said of the Lord's power to save and of His ability to

hear? Isa. 59:1.

NOTE.

—

This

verse is God's answer to the complaint made in the

preceding chapter that God had not heard the requests of His people

though they had fasted and afflicted their souls.

[ 17 ]

What has caused separation between God and His people? Why

has God hidden His face? Verse 2; Deut. 31:17.

What has been defiled with blood and with iniquity? What is

said of the lips and tongue? Isa. 59:3; 1:15.

For what do the people not call or plead? In what do they trust?

What do they speak? What do they conceive and bring forth? Isa.

59:4.

What two illustrations are used? What happens if the egg is

eaten, and what if it is crushed? Verse 5.

NoTE.—A cockatrice, the same as adder or basilisk, is a venomous

serpent. A double image is here used, that of a cockatrice and a spider.

The hatching of a cockatrice's eggs doubtless refers to the hatching of

schemes by wicked men. These schemes take time for development, and

all that is involved in them may not at once be apparent. Many plans

look innocent and do not seem fraught with danger, but there is death

in them. Of such are all attempts at religious legislation. Ostensibly

innocent and said to be for the good of the people, there is seen but the

hatching of cockatrice's eggs. Whoever eats of the eggs, that is, are in

favor of and fall in with such schemes, will reap the sure result.

"That which is crushed." Some of the schemes will not materialize,

but will be crushed. Opposition will develop. And it is at such a time

that the real nature of the scheme will be revealed. It will break out

"into a viper." Men will then show the spirit that animates them. As

the figure of the cockatrice brings out the deadly nature of the schemes

laid by wicked men, so that of the spider reveals the futility.

What shall the webs not become? With what are they unable to

cover themselves? What are their works said to be? What is in their •

hands? Verse 6.

NOTE.-A

spider's web is designed to catch unwary insects. But

here an additional application is made of the figure. While evil men

are hatching out deep-laid schemes, presented under the figure of cocka-

trice's eggs, they are trying to cover their real intention in a garment

composed of spider's web. But who can shield himself in such a gar-

ment? Men may think they can hide themselves and their schemes, but

to God they appear as clothed in a garment of spider's web. God knows

their secret machinations, and so do His people. When wicked men are

trying secretly to hatch a viper, and think that no one knows what they

are doing, somebody will step on the egg and reveal what is inside

before the scheme is fully hatched. An example of this is , Haman's

•

attempt on the life of God's people', as revealed in the book of Esther.

To what do their feet run? For what purpose do they make

haste? What is said of their thoughts and of their paths? Verse 7.

Of what are they ignorant? What is not found in their goings?

What do those not know who walk in crooked paths? Verse 8.

What is said of judgment and justice? For what do they wait?

What is the result? Verse 9.

[ 18

NOTE.—Thus

far in the chapter God has spoken. Now the people

speak. Verses 9-14. Instead of proclaiming their own righteousness as

in chapter 58:3, they admit that the accusations against them are

justified.

"Therefore," that is, because of the sins mentioned in verses 1-8.

"Judgment," "justice." The American Revised Version has "jus-

tice" and "righteousness."

"Wait fqr light." It is useless for anyone to wait for light so long

as he has pleasure in iniquity.

10.

What comparison is made with the blind? When do

they

stumble? To what are they likened? Verse 10.

11.

What two illustrations are here used? For what two things

ara

they said to look? Verse 11.

12.

What has been multiplied? What is done by our sins? What is

said of our iniquities and transgressions? Verse

12.

NOTE.—"Our sins testify." What a tremendous statement! Sin

does not exist apart from personality. It exists only as it is committed

by, and belongs to, some one. Lies, envy, vice, impurity, hatred, greed,

pride. What a company! How repulsive! Yet these are the compan-

ions we choose; and after we have played with them, entertained them,

loved them, they turn around and testify against us. It is not the sins

of which we are unaware that will condemn us. It is the sins we know.

We do not need more light, but more life, more power.

13.

Name the seven sins mentioned in this verse. Verse 13.

14.

What is said of judgment and justice? What has happened to

truth? What can equity not do? Verse

14.

NomE.—"Courts of justice are corrupt. Rulers are actuated by de-

sire for gain, and love of sensual pleasure. Intemperance has beclouded

the faculties of many, so that Satan has almost complete control of

them. Jurists are perverted, bribed, deluded. Drunkenness and revelry,

passion, envy, dishonesty of every sort, are represented among those

who administer the laws. 'Justice standeth afar off : for truth is fallen

in the street, and equity can not enter.' "—"Tlie Great Controversy,"

p. 586.

15.

What becomes of truth? Who makes himself a prey? How does

this affect the Lord? Verse 15.

16.

Why did the Lord wonder? What did His ,arm bring? -What

sustained Him? Verse 16.

NomE.—"No man." (See Jer. 5:1.)

"No intercessor," such as Moses and Aaron. Num. 16:47, 48.

Though God found "no man" worthy of the name, yet He did not

fail, but brought salvation and righteousness.

17.

What did the Lord put on as breastplate and helmet? What

was His garment and cloak? Verse 17.

NOTE.—God

is here spoken of as a warrior going forth to battle for

His people. He is arming Himself with His own attributes,--right-

eousness, salvation, vengeance, and zeal.

[19]

18.

According to what will God recompense His enemies? Verse 18.

NoTE.—"According to their deeds." This is just. Rev. 22:12. The

judgment here mentioned is not that of the last day, but rather such

judgment as God metes out in this life to individuals and nations who

transgress. The captivity of the children of Israel and the fall of

Nineveh and Babylon are of this kind. This becomes clear from a

study of the following verse.

19.

What is the effect of God's judgments? What will 'God do when

the enemy comes in like a flood? Verse 19.

NOTE.—"So," because of this. The result of God's punishing is that

men will fear the Lord. That, however, is not the case in the last judg-

ment, for that punishment is final, and will not result in men's fearing

the Lord. Hence we conclude that this is not the judgment of the

last day.

Read "The Great Controversy," p. 600, first paragraph.

20.

To whom shall the Redeemer come? Verse 20.

NoTE.—God shall come in "fury to His adversaries," verse 18, but

as a Redeemer to all that turn from transgression.

21.

With whom is the covenant? What is said of God's Spirit and

of His word? Verse 21.

NOTE.—"Thee" refers to the Redeemer of verse 20. The seed is the

spiritual seed. Isa. 53:10.

"My Spirit," "My words." The Spirit is in the word. John 6:63.

And that word is not to depart from our mouths "from henceforth and

forever."

LESSON 7

THE FINAL TRIUMPH OF THE RIGHTEOUS

February 16, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 60.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 60:21.

INTRODUCTION

This chapter deals with the glorious finishing of the work, and with

the new earth state. "This message will close with power and strength

far exceeding the midnight cry."—"Early Writings," p. 278.

Here is brought to view the great ingathering of souls, and how God

will move upon men to support the work. Let our faith grasp these

promises, and they are ours.

THE LESSON

1. What are God's people bidden to do? Why? Isa. 60:1.

NOTE.—"The words of Christ through the gospel prophet, which

are but reechoed in the Sermon on the Mount, are for us in this last

generation: 'Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the

Lord is risen upon thee.' "—"Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing,"

p. 70.

[ 20 ]

"The world to-day is in crying need of a revelation of Christ Jesus

in the person of His saints."—"Testimonies to Ministers," p. 458.

What shall cover the earth and the people? In contrast to this,

what shall be the experience of God's people? Verse 2.

NOTE.—It is a strange contrast we see in the world to-day. On the

one hand there is a wonderful advance in all kinds of worldly learning.

Men delve into the secrets of nature and bring forth marvelous things.

At the same time there is a lamentable lack of true knowledge. The

fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,



this fear men do not

have. Hence it is that the world has much powcz but little light; much

learning but little wisdom. The world, in spite - its boasted progress,

lies in darkness. But God's children are privileged to arise and shine.

Read "Christ's Object Lessons," p. 41f-, paragraph 3; new edition,

p. 424.

Who shall come to the light? What prominent persons are men-

tioned? Verse 3.

NOTE.—"To those who go out to meet the Bridegroom is this mes-

sage given."—"Christ's Object Lessons," p. 420. lucre is no doubt

that these verses found their fulfillment at the first coming of Christ,

and they will be fulfilled again at His second coming. We shall yet see

a large ingathering of souls, and, according to prophecy, some of these

will come from among the great of earth.

What will they see as they lift up their eyes? Who comes from

far and near? Verse 4.

What will happen when they see this? Who will be converted,

and who will come? Verse 5.

NOTE.—"The forces of the Gentiles," or "the wealth of the nations,"

as the American Revised Version gives it. While we may not look for-

ward to a golden age here on earth, but rather to opposition and perse-

cution, yet we may believe that God will grant His people favor for a

little while before the storm breaks, and that these verses will find an

application and fulfillment.

"The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifesta-

tion of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies

which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the open-

ing of the gospel, are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its

close."—"The Great Controversy," pp. 611, 612.

The 1844 movement and the Reformation were mighty movements,

"but these are to be far exceeded by the mighty movement under the

last warning of the third angel."—Id., p. 611.

Read "The Great Controversy," pp. 611, 612.

From what places are they said to come? What will they bring?

Verse 6.

NOTE.—The Ishmaelites to whom Joseph was sold were Midianites..

Gen. 37:25, 36. The Ephahs were one of the tribes of Milian. Gen..

25:4. Sheba was a country of Arabia. The conversion of such self-

seeking and roving tribes would constitute a supreme exhibition of the

mighty power of God.

[21

"Gold and incense." Gold denotes wealth, and incense, worship.

What should come up with acceptance upon the altar? Verse 7.

NOTE.—"With acceptance." The thought is taken from the sacri-

ficial offerings of the Jews. Some offerings were called acceptance

offerings because the Lord accepted them as a recognition of consecra-

tion on the part of the offerer. (See Lev. 1 :4.) Of that nature were

the burnt offerings which denoted full and complete dedication to God.

These were brought to the altar and completely consumed upon it, thus

indicating that the Lord was well pleased. Lev. 1:1-9; see also Judges

13:19-23. "That he may be accepted before Jehovah" is the American

Revised Version rendering of the latter part of Leviticus 1 :3. Kedar

and Nebaioth are Arab tribes.

What questions are now asked? Verse 8.

NOTE.—"A cloud." Those that will be gathered in under the

preaching of the gospel are here spoken of as being so many that they

look like a cloud.

"Doves to their windows." As doves wend their way homeward to

their accustomed window, so weary souls are turning to their God.

What are the isles said to do? What do the ships of Tarshish

bring? For whom are their gifts? Verse 9.

NOTE.—"Tarshish," in Spain, was considered very remote in the

days of Isaiah. It was in the west end of the Mediterranean Sea, far

removed from Judea. Even from these outlying places should souls

come, bringing gifts with them.

10.

Who will build up the walls? Who shall be ministers? What

has God done in wrath? What in favor? Verse 10.

11.

What is said of the gates? What will be brought? Verse 11.

NOTE.—"These prophecies of a great spiritual awakening in a time

of gross darkness, are to-day meeting fulfillment in the advancing lines

of mission stations that are reaching out into the benighted regions of

earth. The groups of missionaries in heathen lands have been likened

by the prophet to ensigns set up for the guidance of those who are

looking for the light of truth."—"Prophets and Kings," pp. 375, 376.

12.

What will be the experience of nations that will not serve God's

people? Verse 12.

NOTE.—Barnes gives the following explanation of this verse: "The

idea is, that no nation can flourish that does not obey the law of God,

or where the worship of the true God is not maintained. History is

full of affecting illustrations of this. The ancient republics and king-

doms fell because they had not the true religion. The kingdoms of

Babylon, Assyria, Macedonia, and Egypt; the Roman Empire, and all

the ancient monarchies and republics, soon fell to ruin because they

had not the salutary restraints of the true religion, and lacked the pro-

tection of the true God. France cast off the government of God in the

Revolution, and was drenched in blood. It is a maxim of universal

truth, that the nation which does not admit the influence of the laws

and the government of God must be destroyed."

[ 22 ]

13.

How is the glorious state of the church further emphasized?

Verse 13.

14.

What will they do who have afflicted and despised God's people?

By what names will they be called? Verse 14.

NomE.—This verse contains a promise like that in Revelation 3 :9.

15.

How have God's people been considered? What will God make

them? Verse 15.

16.

What symbol is here used to show how God provides for His

own? What shall the church know? Verse 16.

NOTE.—As a child receives nourishment from its mother, so the

church is here pictured as being supported by the Gentiles, even by

kings. All wealth belongs to the Lord, and He will see to it that the

abundance of the Gentiles shall be used for the furtherance of the

gospel.

17.

What change will be brought about? What will the officer and

exacter be? Verse 17.

NOTE.—The thought here is that God will ennoble and elevate that

which is of less worth. Souls whose value in their unsaved state may

be likened to wood, iron, and brass, will God increase in value to brass,

silver, and gold respectively. How often we see that! God will take an

uncouth, backward boy and change him into an efficient soul saver or.

competent administrator.

"Officers peace." This phrase may be rendered: "I will appoint

peace as thy government and righteousness as thy ruler." This and the

following verses speak of the ideal condition of the church.

18.

What will no more be heard in the land? What will the walls

and the gates be called? Verse 18. ,

19.

What is said of the sun and moon? Who shall be our light and

glory? Verse 19; Rev. 21:23; 22:5.

20.

What will the sun and the moon not do? What will the Lord

be? What shall be ended? Isa. 60:20.

NOTE.—"In the city of God 'there shall be no night.' . . . The light

of the sun will be superseded by a radiance which is not painfully

dazzling, yet which immeasurably surpasses the brightness of our noon-

tide. The glory of God and the Lamb floods the holy city with unfad-

ing light. The redeemed walk in the sunless glory of perpetual day."

—"The Great Controversy," p. 676.

Read "The Ministry of Healing," pp. 504, 506.

21.

What shall "a little one" become? What will the Lord do in

His time? Verse 22.

NoTE.—Compare Luke 12:32 with Revelation 7:9 to see how the

"little flock" becomes a "great multitude." In His own good time the

Lord will hasten it. Rom. 9:28.

"The words of the living God are the highest of all education."—

"Testimonies," Vol. 8, p. 308.

[ 231

LESSON 8

BUILDERS OF THE OLD WASTE PLACES .

February 23, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 61.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 61:1.

INTRODUCTION

The first sermon Christ preached in His home town had for its text

Isaiah 61:1. Never should it be forgotten that our mission is the same

as Christ's. We are sent in His stead. John 17:18. 2 Cor. 5:20.

Study with care the work outlined for Christ in the first three

verses. That work is our work. It is a work of healing, of comfort, of

good cheer. It will take us to the broken-hearted, the captives, the

mourners. It will cause us to "build the old wastes." The work will

be so evidently blessed of the Lord that men will recognize it, the riches

of the Gentiles shall come, and the message itself shall develop a

people clad in the garments of Christ's righteousness.

THE LESSON

On what occasion did Jesus quote Isaiah 61:1 and part of verse

2? To whom did He apply these words? Luke 4:16-20.

NOTE.—"Jesus stood before the people as a living expositor of the

prophecies concerning Himself. Explaining the words He had read,

He spoke of the Messiah as a reliever of the oppressed, a liberator of

captives, a healer of the afflicted, restoring sight to the blind, and

revealing to the' world the light of truth. His impressive manner and

the wonderful import of His words thrilled the hearers with a power

they had never felt before."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 237.

What did Christ say was upon Him? For what purpose was He

anointed? Isa. 61:1, first part.

NOTE.—Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit and power. Acts

10:38. In the Old Testament the priests were anointed, and also the

kings. Ex. 29:5-7; 1 Sam. 9:15, 16. It was a sign of appointment to

high office, and denoted consecration and dedication to it.

"Anointed Me to preach." There is no higher office than that of the

gospel minister. It was to this Jesus was anointed, and the qualifica-

tions for the anointing are given in Psalm 45:7 and Hebrews 1:9.

Christ loved righteousness and hated iniquity, therefore, God anointed

Him.

Whom should Christ bind up? To whom should liberty be pro-

claimed? For whom shall the prison be opened? Isa. 61:1, last part.

NOTE.—"The broken-hearted." As the Samaritans bound up the

wounds of the man that fell among thieves (Luke 10:34), so Christ

was to bind up the broken-hearted, to comfort, to heal the sorrowing

and distressed. In this work we are to follow Him.

"Proclaim liberty!' The only true liberty is freedom from sin.

John 8:32, 36; Rom. 6:18.

[ 24 ]

"Them that are bound." Men are bound by sin and unbelief, by the

customs and traditions of men. The worst prison is that which we

make for ourselves, the worst blindness is willful blindness. But Christ

came to open the prison, to give sight to the blind. Luke 4:18.

What year and day did Christ come to proclaim? Who shall be

comforted? Isa. 61:2.

NomE.—"Acceptable year." "The year of Jehovah's favor." Ameri-

can Revised Version. It may be well to contrast the year of Jehovah's

favor with the day of vengeance. Even as the year is much longer than

the day, so God's mercy is much more abundant than His wrath.

"When Jesus in the synagogue read from the prophecy, He stopped

short of the final specification concerning the Messiah's work. Having

read the words, 'To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord,' He

omitted the phrase, 'and the day of vengeance of our God.' This was

just as much truth as was the first of the prophecy, and by His silence

Jesus did not deny the truth. But this last expression was that upon

which His hearers delighted to dwell, and which they were desirous of

fulfilling. They denounced judgments against the heathen, not discern-

ing that their own guilt was even greater than that of others. They

themselves were in deepest need of the mercy they were so ready to

deny to the heathen."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 240.

What three things will God exchange for them that mourn in

Zion? Verse 3, first part.

NoTE:—This is a message of courage for those who are downcast

and disheartened, for those who "mourn in Zion." This mourning is

the same as the sighing mentioned in Ezekiel 9:4. It is a mourning for

sin, not necessarily the sins of others, but their own. Read "The Desire

of Ages," p. 300.

What will they be called? Why? Verse 3, last part.

NomE.—"Trees of righteousness," literally "oaks" or "terebinths."

"They shall be sturdy oaks of goodness," Moffatt translates it. The

same figure is used in Jeremiah 17:8.

"That He might be glorified." God is to be glorified in His saints.

He wants to reveal His character in us. His meekness,•His humility,

His self-control and purity should be our standard of conduct.

What shall God's people do? What shall they repair? How long

have they been desolate? Verse 4.

NOTE.—Read this verse in connection with Isaiah 58:12, and the

note under Question 12, Lesson 5.

What shall strangers and aliens do? Verse 5.

NOTE.—This work will become so all-important to Many that they

will let the Gentiles feed their flocks, while they go to feed the spirit.

ually hungry world.

What will God's people be named? What will they be called?

What will they eat? In whose glory 'will they boast? Verse 6.

NoTE.—"Priests." God's original intention was that His people

should be priests. Ex. 19:6. Because of sin, Israel lost that privilege,

]

and it was given to one of the tribes only. Ex. 28: 1. In the New Tes-

tament this privilege is restored. 1 Peter 2:9.

"Ministers." A minister is a servant. As Christ our Lord we are

to be among men as "he that serveth." Luke 22:27.

"Riches of the Gentiles." Read note under Question 16, Lesson 7.

"In their glory." "To their glory shall ye succeed," American Re-

vised Version, margin. The Gentiles glory in their riches. But the time

shall come when God's people shall succeed them and inherit even the

riches of the Gentiles.

10.

For what shall they have double? In what will they rejoice?

What shall come to them? Verse 7.

NOTE.—The sense of this verse is that even as God's people have

suffered, so shall a double portion of joy be theirs. For an application

of this principle to the ungodly, see Revelation 18:6.

11.

What does the Lord love? What does He hate? What will God

direct? What is said of the covenant? Verse 8.

NOTE.—"Love judgment," "hate robbery." The Septuagint reads,

"Love righteousness, and hate robberies of injustice."

"Their work." This is a definite promise of the Lord's direction.

The American Revised Version reads: "I will give them their recom-

pense in truth," that is, wherein they have been robbed I will see to it

that they are recompensed justly.

12.

Where shall their seed be known? What shall all aclaiowledge?

Verse 9.

13.

In whom does the prophet say he will rejoice and be joyful?

What reasons are given for this rejoicing? Verse 10.

NOTE.—"Garments of salvation," "robe of righteousness." The

covenant which God makes with His people (verse 8) includes the

promise of forgiveness of sins and their covering with the garment of

salvation. As the father, in the•parable of the prodigal son, threw his

robe over his son, so God throws His robe of righteousness over repent-

ant sinners. This is what is called imputed righteousness.

"Whatever may have been your past experience, however discourag-

ing your present circumstances, if you will come to Jesus just as you

are, weak, helpless, and despairing, our compassionate Saviour will

meet you a great way off, and will throw about you His arms of love

and His robe of righteousness. He presents us to the Father clothed

in the white raiment of His own character. He pleads before God in

our behalf, saying : I have taken the sinner's place. Look not upon this

wayward child, but look on Me. Does Satan plead loudly against our

souls, accusing of sin, and claiming us as his prey, the blood of Christ

pleads with greater power."—"Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing,"

p. 21.

"Bridegroom," "bride." (See Rev. 19:7, 8.)

14.

What comparison does the Lord here make between the garden

which "causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth" and His

righteousness? Verse 11.

NOTE.—Read "The Acts of the Apostles," p. 560.

[26]

LESSON 9

THE HOLY PEOPLE; THE LORD'S REDEEMED

March 2, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE : Isaiah 62.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 62:6.

INTRODUCTION

This chapter brings to view the high position to which God calls

His people in Christ Jesus. Before the end conies, God will have a holy

people, whose righteousness will be evident to all men, Gentiles and

kings alike. God Himself will find joy in them. They will be His crown

of glory and royal diadem. They will be a praying people, faithful

watchmen on the walls• of Zion.

We shall miss the lesson of this chapter if we apply it only to other

times and peoples. We shall also miss it if we apply the lesson to a

people rather than to ourselves individually. God will not merely have

a holy people, He wants me to be holy. Personal sanctification is the

aim of the truth.

THE LESSON

For whose sake does God say He will not rest or hold His peace?

How will righteousness and salvation go forth? Isa. 62:1.

NOTE. Zion and Jerusalem stand for God's people.

"Righteousness," "salvation." God is here revealed as having

purposed to present His people before the world in the garment of

righteousness and salvation, and that He will not rest until it is accom-

plished. It is not that God will reveal Himself directly, but that He

will reveal His people to the world.

What will the Gentiles and kings see? By what will God's people

be called? Who decides upon this new name? Verse 2.

NOTE.—"A new name." After Jacob had wrestled all night with

the Angel, his old name no longer fitted him. He had passed through

a new experience, and he was a changed man. So his name was changed

because he was changed. Gen. 32:28. In like manner here. God's

people will have an entirely new experience, and their new name will

indicate that change. Rev. 2:17.

What two things are God's people said to be in the hand of the

Lord? Verse 3.

NOTE.—"Crown of glory." "Royal diadem." As a person might

hold an object of beauty in his hand for others to admire, so the Lord

is here shown exhibiting His people to the world. They are to Him a

crown of glory and a royal diadem.

These verses have a present application, and they will see their ful-

fillment in this generation; therefore, a great work lies before us. It

concerns first and chiefly our own relation to God. If we are to be

exhibited to the world as the handiwork of God, we should be greatly

concerned about our progress in holiness.

Read "Testimonies," Vol. 2, p. 355.

[27]

What will God's people no more be termed? What wit the land

not be called? What names will be given to the people and the land?

Why? What is said of the land? Verse 4.

NOTE.—"Flephzi-bah" means "delight," and "Beulah" means "mar-

ried." (See margin.) This figure recalls Isaiah 54:1, where it denotes

the fruitfulness, the increase that shall come in souls saved. _

What illustration is here used? How will God rejoice? Verse 5.

NOTE.—Two figures are here used. First, God's people, under a

symbol of sons, are married to the land, the virgin; second, God, as the

bridegroom, is married to the bride, His people.

In Revelation the New Jerusalem in which are God's people is

spoken of as coming down from heaven as the bride, and Christ is the

bridegroom. Rev. 21:9, 10. So in like manner the figure is here used.

Whom has God set upon the walls? What shall they never do?

Verse 6, first part.

NoTE.—"The watchmen anciently placed upon the walls of Jerusa-

lem and other cities, occupied a most responsible position. Upon their

faithfulness depended the safety of all within those cities. When dan-

ger was apprehended, they were not to keep silent day or night. Every

few moments they were required to call to one another, to see if all

were awake, and no harm had come to any. Sentinels were stationed

upon some eminence overlooking the important posts to be guarded,

and the cry of warning or of good cheer was sounded from them. This

was borne from one to another, each repeating the words, till it went

the entire rounds of the city.

"These watchmen represent the ministry, upon whose fidelity de-

pends the salvation of souls. The stewards of the mysteries of God

should stand as watchmen upon the walls of Zion; and if they see the

sword coming, they should sound the note of warning. If they are

sleepy sentinels, and their spiritual senses are so benumbed that they

see and realize no danger, and the people perish, God will require their

blood at the watchmen's hands."—"Testimonies," Vol. 4, pp. 402, 403.

What are those not to do who make mention of the Lord? Verse

6, last part.

NOTE.—"The Lord's remembrancers," margin. A strange expres-

sion, yet an appropriate one. In these last days when the whole world

is prone to forget His law and His memorial, "the Lord's remem-

brancers" are admonished not to keep silence.

What are they told not to give the Lord? Until what time?

Verse 7.

NoTE.—"Give Him no rest." This is said as an encouragement to

prayer, to "pray without ceasing." 1 Thess. 5:17.

"Let all who are afflicted or unjustly used, cry to God. Turn away

from those whose hearts are as steel, and make your requests known to

your Maker. Never is one repulsed who comes to Him with a contrite

heart. Not one sincere prayer is lost. Amid the anthems of the celes-

tial choir, God hears the cries of the weakest human being. We pour

out our heart's desire in our closets, we breathe a prayer as we walk by

[

281

the way, and our words reach the throne of the Monarch of the uni-

verse. They may be inaudible to any human ear, but they can not die

away into silence, nor can they be lost through the activities of busi-

ness that are going on. Nothing can drown the soul's desire. It rises

above the din of the street, above the confusion of the multitude, to

the heavenly courts. It is God to whom we are speaking, and our

prayer is heard."—"Christ's Object Lessons," p. 174.

A similar lesson is taught by the parable of the importunate friend.

Luke 11:5-8.

By what has the Lord sworn? What has He sworn? Verse 8.

10.

What shall they do who have gathered the corn and the wine

and have brought it together? Verse 9.

11.

What command is given? For whom is the way to be prepared?

What is to be done to the highway and the stones? What is to be

lifted up? Verse 10.

NorrE.—"Go through the gates." Spread out. Proclaim the message

beyond your own gates. "Prepare ye the way." Do everything in your

power to help those in need. Remove every hindrance. "Lift up a

standard." "The commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus" is

such a standard. Rdv. 14:12.

12.

What message has God proclaimed to those living in the end of

the world? What is said of His reward and work? Verse 11.

NOTE.—"Thy salvation cometh." This is the message of the second

advent, and it is to be sounded to the ends of the earth. It will be

accompanied with a judgment message, for "His reward is with Him."

Rev. 22:12.

"His work," recompense, margin. Christ comes both with a reward

and a recompense.

13.

By what four names will the people be called? Verse 12.

LESSON 10

AFFLICTED FOR HIS PEOPLE'S SAKE

March 9, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 63.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 63:9.

INTRODUCTION

Isaiah 63:1-6 presents a dreadful description of God's wrath; but

these verses also hold a peculiar beauty and fascination. A view is

given of God's going forth in fury to trample the people in His wrath.

Their blood is sprinkled upon His garments, which are crimson, as are

the garments of one who treads the winefat. In the midst of this de-

scription is the statement of Christ's treading the wine press alone.

This may at first seem irrelevant and contradictory to the rest of the

section. How can one be reconciled with the other? May it not be that

[29 1

as God is considering the effect of sin, the suffering and misery that

it has caused both on earth and in heaven, culminating in the terrible

struggle of the Son of God with powers of darkness in Gethsemane and

Golgotha, forsaken and alone—that this thought makes it possible for

Him to execute the final punishment for sin which is. a strange work

for God to do? Isa. 28:21.

The next section, verses 7-14, tells of God's goodness and mercy, of

His participation in Israel's afflictions, and also of Israel's rebellion

against God and His Holy Spirit.

Verses 15-19 are a prayer, some passages of which, in particular

verse 15, are of surpassing beauty.

THE LESSON

After the words of comfort in the last of the preceding chapter,

what question is asked? What is said of the garment? How does He

travel? What answer is given? What is further said of His apparel?

Isa. 63:1, 2.

NOTE.—"Edom" means red, and Was the name given to Esau. Gen.

25:30. Bozrah was a city of Edom. The Edomites were the enemies of

Israel. They tried to hinder Israel from entering the Promised Land.

Num. 20:14-21. They were always ready to join the opposers of God's

people. Eze. 25:12. They seemed to have the same spirit as Esau when

lie sought to slay his brother. Gen. 27.:41.

Esau and Jacob were not only brothers, but twin brothers. This

relationship should have caused them to draw close together; but, in-

stead of this, Edom hated Jacob with a "perpetual hatred." Eze. 35:5.

This scripture applies to all who partake of the spirit of Esau. These

may be very closely related to Israel, but they are not of Israel. They

may be twin brothers, but this only makes their sin more heinous. And

now judgment is poured out upon the persecutors of Israel. God is

shown in this verse as returning from Edom, having executed ven-

geance.

What does Christ say He has trodden? How does He speak of

the day of vengeance? Verses 3, 4.

NOTE.—In the Garden of Gethsemane Christ was longing for human

sympathy and help. But no help was near. The disciples were sleeping.

Christ was alone with the powers of darkness. Three times the Master

prayed, and three times His humanity shrank from the last crowning

sacrifice. Then He made the decision and accepted the baptism of

blood. "Having made the decision, He fell dying to the ground from

which He had partially risen. Where now were His disciples, to place

their hands tenderly beneath the head of their fainting Master, and

bathe that brow, marred indeed more than the sons of men? The Sav-

iour trod the wine press alone, and of the people there was none with

Him."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 693.

When God at last executes vengeance on those that have disobeyed

Him and persecuted the saints, He knows just what He is doing. He

has trod the wine press Himself. He knows what it is to suffer. There

was no one near to comfort Him. And the punishment meted out to the

transgressors, great though it be, does not begin to compare with the

agony He Himself passed through.

[ 30]

Why did God wonder? What brought salvation? How does God

again speak of the punishment of evildoers? Verses 5, 6.

With what words does the prophet now turn from the contem-

plation of punishment? Verse 7.

NoTE.—The wrath of God has been dwelt on in the preceding sec-

tion, and in contrast with this the prophet now calls attention to God's

loving-kindness, goodness, and mercy. It would be well if we more

often would think of God'

s goodness and how much we have to be

thankful for. "Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of

soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. It is a positive duty

to resist melancholy, discontented thoughts and feelings,—as much a

duty as it is to pray. If we are heaven bound, how can we go as a band

of mourners, groaning and complaining all along the way to our Fa-

ther's house?"—"The Ministry of Healing," p. 251.

How does God express His confidence in His children? What did

He become? Verse 8.

NOTE.—"My people." God identifies Himself with His people as in

the beginning. Ex. 3:7. (See also Hosea 11:1.)

"Children that will not lie," that can be depended on. The meaning

is, that surely they will be faithful and not fall away. This expresses

God's confidence in His people. Even though God knew from the be-

ginning that some would fail, He deals with His children on the basis

of confidence.

When Israel was afflicted, who also was afflicted? Who saved

them? Because of what did He redeem them? What did God do all the

days of old? Verse 9.

NOTE.—"Few give thought to the suffering that sin has caused our

Creator. All heaven suffered in Christ's agony; but that suffering did

not begin or end with His manifestation in humanity. The cross is a

revelation to our dull senses of the pain that, from its very inception,

sin has brought to the heart of God. Every departure from the right,

every deed of cruelty, every failure of humanity to reach His ideal,

brings grief to Him. When there came upon Israel the calamities that

were the sure result of separation from God,—subjugation by their

enemies, cruelty, and death,—it is said that 'His soul was grieved for

the misery of Israel.' In all their affliction 1=fe was afflicted; . . . and

He bare them, and carried them all the days of old.'"—"Education,"

p. 263.

What did Israel do? Whom did they vex? How did God then

turn, and what did He do? Verse 10.

NOTE.—"They rebelled." In the worship of the golden calf, Exodus

32; at Meribah, Numbers 20; at Shittim, Numbers 25; in Samuel's

time, 1 Sam. 8:5, 19, 20.

"Their enemy." (See Lam. 2:3-5; Jer. 30:14.)

What did the people then remember? What did they say? What

question is asked concerning the Holy Spirit? Verse 11.

NOTE.—When the Lord had left Israel because of their sin, they

remembered how God of old had been merciful to Israel in spite of

311

their shortcomings, and asked: Whe're is God that brought His people

through the Red Sea? Where is He that gave them His Holy Spirit?

Jeremiah complains that the people do not remember. Jer. 2 :6.

"Shepherd." Margin, "shepherds," probably Moses and Aaron, as

in Psalm 77:20.

How did God lead the people? What was divided? How did that

affect God's name? Verse 12.

NOTE.—It was one of the purposes of the miracles and wonders

wrought in Egypt for the deliverance of Israel that God's name might

be declared throughout the earth.

10.

By what illustration does God show how He leads the people?

Verse 13.

11.

Who caused Israel to rest? 'What is repeated concerning God's

name? Verse 14.

12.

How does the prophet, speaking for Israel, word his prayer for

God's attention and help? Verse 15.

NOTE.—This verse contains one of the most beautiful prayers in all

Scripture. The prophet remembers what God has done in former days,

how He led Israel and saved them. Can not God do the same now? God

had then helped Israel for His name's sake. His name's honor is at

stake now as much as then.

13.

By what endearing name is God called? What is said of Abra-

ham and Israel? What two names for God are now used? Verse 16.

NOTE.—"Doubtless," rather, "for," as in American Revised Version.

"Abraham," "Israel." The Jews were proud of being the children

of Abraham. Some of them trusted in that relationship even more than

they did in God. John 8:39. In this verse the prophet expresses his

supreme confidence in the Lord.

14.

With what does the prophet now charge God? What prayer

does he offer? Verse 17.

15.

By what term are God's people here described? How long had

they been in possession of the Promised Land? What had happened to

the sanctuary? Verse 18.

NOTE.—"A little while." This was probably written about the year

700 B. C., when Israel had been in the land more than five hundred

years. Yet it should be noted that they had not had possession of it

that long. From the very beginning, the Canaanitish tribes bad dis-

puted Israel's advance, and for a long time God's people held but a

small part of the country. Peaceful possession had hardly been theirs

at any time. Twenty years before this was written, ten of the tribes

had been carried into captivity. In the light of God's promise of an in-

heritance they had possessed the land but a little while.

16.

Into what strange condition had Israel fallen? Verse 19,

A. R. V.

NOTE.—The word "Thine" is supplied. The American Revised Ver-

sion reads, "We are become as they over whom Thou never barest rule,

as they that were not called by Thy name."

[32]

LESSON 11

A PRAYER FOR THE REVEALING OF

GOD'S POWER

March 16, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 64.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 64:4.

INTRODUCTION

This chapter deals with events that took place about 698 B. C. In

721 B. C., the ten tribes of Israel had been taken into captivity, and

colonists had been brought over from Babylon to take the place of the

Israelites who had been deported. That was the end of the northern

kingdom. Judah had escaped at that time, but in 701 B. C. Sennach-

crib, king of Assyria, came westward on a tour of conquest, and Judah

did not escape. Hezekiah

stripped

the gold from the doors of the

temple and from the pillars to satisfy the Assyrian king. But he was

not satisfied. He overran Judah, captured many towns, and carried

more than 200,000 of Judah's population into captivity. It was in a

crisis such as this that the prayer which constitutes this lesson was

made. And God heard the prayers of His people, and saved them.

The first part of the prayer expresses the wish that God would come

down and show His power in some mighty way. If He would only

reveal Himself as at Mount Sinai, surely the people would tremble.

We sometimes hear the same thought expressed now, that if God would

only speak from heaven and proclaim that the seventh day is the

Sabbath, all would be convinced and keep it. A paraphrase of Christ's

words would fit here: "They have Moses and the prophets; let them

hear them." "If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they

be persuaded, though God should speak from heaven." Luke 16:29, 31.

THE LESSON

•

What does the prophet now pray that God would do? Isa. 64:1.

NOTE.—This

is a continuation of the prayer begun in the fifteenth

verse of the last chapter.

"Rend the heavens." God had hil Himself from Israel. They could

not pierce through to His dwelling place. Now they ask God to rend

the heavens, to come down and show Himself. The expression "rend

the heavens" is a very strong one, showing the intense desire of Israel

to have God's presence with them again.

"The mountains." When God .spoke the Ten Commandments, "the

mountains melted from before the Lord." Judges 5:5. Israel is now

asking for a like manifestation.

What illustration is used? What would this make known? What

effect would God's presence have on the nations? Verse 2.

NOTE.—When Micah saw the Lord come "forth out of His place,"

the mountains melted and the valleys became as wax. Micah 1:3, 4.

[33

]

The mountains represent that which is most solid here on earth. When

they melt and flow down, well might men tremble at His presence.

"Make Thy name known." Israel wanted a demonstration of God's

power. It looked to them as though God had forsaken His people. 0

that God in this critical hour would "rend the heavens"! they prayed.

"The depths of the earth are the Lord's arsenal, whence were drawn

weapons to be employed in the destruction of the old world. Waters

gushing from the earth united with the waters from heaven to accom-

plish the work of desolation. Since the Flood, fire as well as water has

been God's agent to 'destroy very wicked cities. These judgments are

sent, that those who lightly regard God's law and trample upon His

authority, may be led to tremble before His power, and to confess His

just sovereignty. As men have beheld burning mountains pouring

forth fire and flames, and torrents of melted ore, drying up rivers,

overwhelming populous cities, and everywhere spreading ruin and deso-

lation, the stoutest heart has been filled with terror, and infideTh and

blasphemers have been constrained to acknowledge the infinite power

of God."—"Patriarchs and Prophets," p. 109.

What is God said to have done? Verse 3.

DTOTE.—"Terrible things." This is one of the phrases used in the

Bible to describe the mighty and wonderful acts of God in connection

with the Exodus. Deut. 10:21; 2 Sam. 7:23; Ps. 106:22.

What has not been seen or perceived from the beginning of the

world? Verse 4.

NorE.—"The Ministry of Healing," page 425, quotes the American

Revised Version which reads: "Neither hath the eye seen a God besides

Thee, who worketh for him that waiteth for Him." God is the only God

who works for those who wait for Him. All other gods must be carried

about.

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•

Whom does God meet? Why is God wroth? Verse 5.

NOTE.—The picture brings to mind the Father with outstretched

arms meeting and welcoming the returning son. This meeting refers

not only to the world to come, wonderful as that will be. Right here

and now God will meet every honest soul, and conduct him through the

trials and pitfalls of life to everlasting habitations.

"We have sinned." This confession i 3 at the basis of all true Chris-

tian progress.

What are we all said to be? What is our righteousness? What

is the experience of all? What have our iniquities done? Verse 6.

NoTE.—"An unclean thing." (See Isa. 1:6.)

"Filthy rags." Not merely rags, but filthy rags. Our upright con-

duct, our good deeds done to be seen of men, our respectability, our

correct outward deportment, our culture, refinement, education, our

churchgoing and worship—all these, which in themselves are good and

not to be condemned—merely constitute our own righteousness unless

they are grounded in a deep sense of our unworthiness. Without Christ

these seeming virtues are but as filthy rags.

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"Fade as a leaf." This is the effect of sin. As the wind blows away

the dead leaves, so shall those be that do iniquity.

What complaint does the prophet now bring? What has God

done? Why? Verse 7.

NomE.—"None that calleth upon Thy name, that stirreth up him-

self." This statement we may well apply to this time as well as to the

time of Isaiah. It seems that every time God wants something done, it

is necessary to send some one to stir up the people. Men are sleeping

on the brink of eternity, and are not stirred by the events taking place

right before them. And even God's people do not seem to be stirred

as they should be.

"Hast consumed us." An expression which indicates not what had

happened, but what would happen if they continued in sin.

What is God to His people? What are we? What is God? Whose

work are we? Verse 8. (See also Isa. 29 : 16.)

What do the people ask the Lord not to remember? Verse 9;

43:25.

10.

What have their holy cities and Jerusalem become? Isa. 64:10.

11.

What is said of their holy and beautiful house, the temple?

Verse 11.

12.

What questions are now asked? Verse 12.

NOTE.—Will the Lord hold back any longer? The question demands

the answer that the Lord will not delay any longer, that He will hear

and help His people.

LESSON 12

A PEOPLE PREPARED FOR A NEW HEAVEN

AND A NEW EARTH

March 23, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 65.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 65:17, 18.

INTRODUCTION

Israel provoked God to anger by their "holier than thou" attitude.

It was this same tendency that Christ so abhorred in the Pharisee. This

chapter brings to view the rejection of the Jews and the acceptance of

the Gentiles. Yet God will not reject all Israel. There is still a "seed

in Jacob," that will be saved. For all who are eventually saved, God

will create new heavens and a new earth. There all will be happiness

and joy, no weeping or crying. Even the animal creation shall be at

peace.

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THE LESSON

Of whom has God been sought and found? What did He say to

them? Isa. 65:1.

NOTE.—Paul, in Romans 10 :20, applies this verse to the calling of

the Gentiles.

"Behold Me." To behold God is to see His character, His love. To

be convinced of God's goodness, all anyone needs is to behold Him.

To whom does Paul apply Isaiah 65:2? Romans 10:21.

NOTE.—Paul applies Isaiah 65:1 to the Gentiles, and verse 2 to

the Jews.

What does God say Israel had done? Isa. 65:3.

Where do some remain and lodge? What do they eat, and have in

their vessels? Verse 4.

Nom—"Among the graves," the rock tombs of Palestine.

"Monuments," "secret places," American Revised Version. Probably

for purposes of divination.

"Swine's flesh," forbidden by God. Deut. 14:8.

How did these Jews look upon themselves? How did God con-

sider them? Verse 5.

What is written before God? What will God measure into their

bosom? Verses 6, 7.

What illustration is used by the Lord to show that a seed of Jacob

shall be saved? Verses 8-10.

Nom—Israel may sin and do wickedly, but God will "not destroy

them all." There is still a "seed" left; they shall inherit "My moun-

tains," for they "have sought Me."

The Valley of Achor is a place for "herds to lie down in, for My

people that have sought Me." (See Joshua 7:22-26.) The Valley of

Achor means "the valley of troubling;" but later, the Lord, in His good-

ness toward Israel, says He will give us the Valley of Achor for a door

of hope. Hosea 2:15. He lifts us out of our troubles, and this text to

Israel makes it a place of peace and restfulness.

What will happen to those that forget the "holy mountain," that

is, forget God? Verses 11-15.

NOTE.—Prepare a table for Gad and Meni. (See verse 11, margin.)

These were Syrian gods. The Jews forgot the holy mountain, Jerusalem

with its worship, and turned to strange gods. Therefore, God would

punish them, "number you to the sword." The following verses describe

the punishment. They shall hunger and thirst, they shall be ashamed

and cry for sorrow of heart, and their very name shall be a curse.

How shall'a man bless himself? How shall he swear? What will

be forgotten? What will God create? Verses 16, 17.

10.

In what are we told to rejoice? What shall not be heard any

more? Verses 18, 19.

11.

What shall no more be? When shall the child and the sinner die?

Verse 20.

12.

What will those do who build houses? Who will eat the fruit of

the vineyards? Verse 21.

NOTE.—"In the earth made new, the redeemed will engage in the

occupations and pleasures that brought happiness to Adam and Eve in

the beginning. The Eden life will be lived, the life in garden and field."

—"Prophets and Kings," p. 730.

13: What will not happen to those who build or plant? What will

their days be like? What will they long enjoy? Verse 22.

NorE.—"Days of a tree." The tree is the longest-lived living thing

known. Hence the prophet uses that to illustrate long life.

"There every power will be developed, every capability increased.

The grandest enterprises will be carried forward, the loftiest aspirations

will be reached, the highest ambitions realized. And still there will

appear new heights to surmount, new wonders to admire, new truths to

comprehend, fresh objects of study to call forth the powers of body

and mind and soul."—Id., p. 731.

14.

What are .the saved called? Who is with them? Verse 23.

15.

How quickly will God answer? Verse 24.

16.

What will be the conditions in the new earth? Verse 25.

NoTE.—"To us who are standing on the very verge of their fulfill-

ment, of what deep moment, what living interest, are these delineations

of the things to come,—events for which, since our first parents turned

their steps from Eden, God's children have watched and waited, longed

and prayed!

"Fellow pilgrim, we are still amid the shadows and turmoil of earthly

activities; but soon our Saviour is to appear to bring deliverance and

rest. Let us by faith behold the blessed hereafter, as pictured by the

hand of God. He who died for the sins of the world, is opening wide the

gates of Paradise to all who believe on Him. Soon the battle will have

been fought, the victory won. Soon we shall see Him in whom our hopes

of eternal life are centered. And in His presence the trials and suffer-

ings of this life will seem as nothingness. The former things 'shall not

be remembered, nor come into mind.' "—Id., pp. 731, 732.

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING—MARCH 30, 1929

Catholic Europe

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LESSON 13

THE INGATHERING FROM THE GENTILES;

WORSHIP IN THE NEW EARTH

March 30, 1929

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 66.

MEMORY VERSE: Isa. 66:22.

INTRODUCTION

God is more interested in the spirit of the giver than in the value of

the gift. The greatest offering may be an abomination if not accom-

panied by a contrite heart.

God will do a wonderful work in a short time. When God's people

receive the latter rain, it is for service. Thousands will accept the truth

in a day. It will look as though the work was done suddenly. Yet a long

preparation went before. The seed has been sown and watered. Now it

will suddenly blossom forth and bear fruit. The work will not have been

done in vain. It may now seem as though very little fruit has come from

a large sowing. But God who has brought "to the birth" will also "cause

to bring forth." God's sign will be proclaimed by the remnant in the

whole earth, and men from all nations will be brought as an offering to

the Lord, many of whom will hold responsible positiOns.

Then will come the new earth. The righteous will worship the Lord,

and the wicked be destroyed.

THE LESSON

Where are God's throne and His footstool? What questions are

asked? Isa. 66:1.

NoTE.—"What manner of house will ye build unto Mel and what

place shall be My rest I" American Revised Version. The contrast be-

tween the first part of the verse and the last is the same as in 1 Kings

8:27 and 2 Chronicles 2:6.

Who has made all things? To whom will God look? Verse 2.

By what four statements does God show that an offering brought

to Him without a contrite spirit is not acceptable? What have they

chosen, and in what do they delight? Verse 3.

NOTE.—The meaning seems to be, "He that offers an ox or any other

sacrifice to Me, but does not have a contrite heart, is as little pleasing to

Me as a murderer." (See Isa. 1:11.)

V/hat will God choose? Why does He do this? Verse 4.

NOTE.—The time will conic when God shall send strong delusions.

2 Thess. 2:11. These have chosen their own way (verse 3), and now God

will choose their delusions.

5. What shall be said to those who tremble at His word? How will

the Lord appear? Verse 5.

NOTE.—This

word was very precious to the brethren who passed

through the experience of 1844. They had been both hated and cast out.

But the precious promise was theirs that the Lord would appear to their

joy. (See "The Great Controversy," p. 372.)

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How does the prophet express his astonishment? What questions

does he ask? What took place as soon as Zion travailed? Verse 8.

NOTE.—Verses 6 and 7 form the introduction to the announcement

given in verse 8. The work of the Lord has gone forward so rapidly that

the prophet in astonishment asks if a nation can be born in one day?

This, without doubt, refers to this time, after the events to which verse 5

has reference. God's people have been endued with power from on high,

thousands are converted in a day, and it looks as though a whole nation

were born in a day. This takes place "as soon as Zion travailed," that,

is, as soon as Gods people really become deeply

in earnest.'

Who is to rejoice with Jerusalem? Verse 10.

What will God extend to His church? Verse 12.

How will Jerusalem be comforted? When His people see this,

what will they do? What will come to God's enemies? Verses 13, 14.

10.

How will the Lord come? What is said of His anger and rebuke?

With what will the Lord plead? What is said of the slain? Verses 15, 16.

NOTE.—The slain mentioned in this text are the slain in the great

battle of Armageddon, explained in Jeremiah 25:27-33.

11.

Who will be consumed together? What does God know? Verses

17, 18.

12.

What will God set among the nations? Where will God send the

remnant? What will they declare? Verse 19.

NOTE.—"A sign." Eze. 20:12, 20.

"Those that escape," the remnant.

"Unto the nations." The nations here mentioned are representative

of the nations of the earth. That is, the messengers shall go to the ends

of the earth and declare God's glory.

13.

What will they bring as an offering from all nations? What will

the Lord take of them? Verses

20, 21.

NOTE.—This widespread missionary work will bring sheaves from all

nations brought as an offering to God. Some of them God will use as

priests and Levites.

14.

How long will the seed and the name remain? Verse 22.

15.

What will come to pass from one new moon to another, and from

one Sabbath to another? Verse 23.

Nova.—"The Sabbath was not for Israel merely, but for the world.

It had been made known to man in Eden, and, like the other precepts of

the Decalogue, it is of imperishable obligation. Of that law of which

the fourth commandment forms a part, Christ declares, 'Till heaven and

earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in nowise pass from the law.' So

long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as

sign of the Creator's power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth

again, God's holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun. 'From

one Sabbath to another' the inhabitants of the glorified new earth shall

go up `to worship before Me, saith the Lord.' "—"The Desire of Ages,"

p. 283.

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AN APPEAL

I. H. EVANS

men of God! These are the last, last hours;

Before us, all the whitened harvest field,

Unreaped, untouched by sickles such as ours.

This closing message will a harvest yield,

If we, His messengers, in zeal proclaim

The everlasting gospel in His name.

men of God! Jesus our Priest awaits

On high to close His ministry; to take

His crown as King of kings; to ope the gates

Of heaven to all His ransomed ones; and shake

The powers of heaven; to wake the sleeping dead;

Receive His kingdom as its kingly Head.

men of God! These are the last, last hours

Of time. Eternity is drawing near.

lost world's doom should wake our drowsy powers

To deeds of valor in His name; and clear

Our title to a starry crown to wear;

Enjoy the mansions Jesus will prepare.

men of God! These are the last, last hours

When mercy waits the sinner. Shall we sleep

In ease till all is lost? Or pray for showers

Of latter rain to fructify and keep

Our labors strong in spirit, win the lost

To love our Lord, regarding not the cost?

men of God! These are the last, last hours

When labors count and bring a rich reward.

In yonder lines of danger, heavenly powers

Unfurl His blood-stained banner, us to guard!

Who'll follow where the Master leads the way?

Go, reap in every land, while lasts the day.